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Road Bike

Cannondale SuperSix EVO vs Synapse

Cannondale's race and endurance road platforms compared. The SuperSix EVO is the brand's WorldTour race bike; the Synapse uses SAVE micro-suspension and endurance geometry.

Cyclist considering which bike to choose

Side-by-Side Overview

Cannondale SuperSix EVO

$3,500 - $13,000

Best for: Racing, climbing and fast group rides

Strengths

  • •BallisTec carbon race frame
  • •Aero tube shaping with low frame weight
  • •Aggressive race geometry
  • •Sharp handling and stiff bottom bracket
  • •Clearance for 30-32mm tires

Considerations

  • •Lower stack not for everyone
  • •Less forgiving on rough roads
  • •Premium pricing at higher tiers

Cannondale Synapse

$2,000 - $8,000

Best for: Endurance riding and rough pavement

Strengths

  • •SAVE micro-suspension at fork and seatstays
  • •Endurance geometry with taller stack
  • •Clearance for up to 35mm tires
  • •Smartsense integrated lighting option
  • •Stable, confident handling on long rides

Considerations

  • •Heavier than the SuperSix EVO
  • •Less responsive feel for racing
  • •Smartsense adds weight and complexity

Head-to-Head Comparison

Stack (56cm)
Cannondale SuperSix EVO~564mm
Cannondale Synapse~595mm
Reach (56cm)
Cannondale SuperSix EVO~390mm
Cannondale Synapse~380mm
Head Tube Angle
Cannondale SuperSix EVO73.0°
Cannondale Synapse72.0°
Max Tire Clearance
Cannondale SuperSix EVO30-32mm
Cannondale Synapse35mm ✓
Climbing & Acceleration
Cannondale SuperSix EVOExcellent ✓
Cannondale SynapseGood
Rough Road Comfort
Cannondale SuperSix EVOGood
Cannondale SynapseExcellent ✓

Sizing Comparison

Both SuperSix EVO and Synapse use Cannondale's numeric road sizing (typically 48-62cm), and your nominal size is consistent across the two - a 56cm rider on one is a 56cm rider on the other. The geometry, however, is quite different. At 56cm the Synapse sits roughly 30mm taller in stack with a slightly shorter reach than the SuperSix EVO, putting the bars in a more upright position even before SAVE compliance is factored in. Riders between two sizes should size down on the SuperSix EVO for a racier drop and size up on the Synapse to lean into its endurance fit.

Verdict

Choose the SuperSix EVO if you race, climb hard or prefer a low, aggressive position on smooth roads. Choose the Synapse if you ride long, rough or mixed-surface roads and want a more upright, compliant setup.

Best for Comfort

Cannondale Synapse - SAVE micro-suspension and taller stack

Best for Performance

Cannondale SuperSix EVO - lighter, stiffer and racier

Cannondale SuperSix EVO vs Cannondale Synapse FAQ